Mary Lou Retton

When I was young, nothing left me in awe and with a burning desire to get up and move, train, and strengthen my body to actually utilize some of its potential, like watching gymnastics. The power, grace, strength, and control these girls display is breathtaking, and still inspires me to this day.

I vividly recall watching the 1984 Summer Olympics gymnastics competition on TV. Mary Lou Retton scored two perfect “10s”, on floor exercise and vault, pushing her over the edge to become the first American to win the all-around gold medal by .05 points. Remembering her triumphant execution of that final vault still gives me goose bumps! Her determination, spirit, infectious smile, and this impressive athletic achievement has endeared her to me ever since.